Maison Ikkoku, Volume 9

One would think that after eight volumes of romantic tension between Godai and Kyoko they would admit their feelings for each other. But in Learning Curves, we find that they still have a lot to learn about love. Godai does a teaching stint at Kyoko's old high school--the place where she fell in love with her late husband during his teaching days--and he meets a student who falls head over heels for him. When this cute student, Yagami, tries to get Godai all for herself by "declaring all-out war" on Kyoko, the sparks start to fly. Then, when Godai applies for a job at Yagami's father's company, it becomes unclear whether Yagami's influence will be a help or a hindrance. And one of the most adorably funny scenes from the first volume makes a reappearance: Godai and Kyoko star in another puppet show! --Jim Pascoe